Pensioners are being advised to be cautious following a rise Winter Fuel Payment text message scams ahead of this year’s payments being made next month.
New data from HMRC shows a massive 153% rise in reported scams which see fraudsters posing as government officials processing the payments.
Please remember:
- Winter Fuel Payments are MADE AUTOMATICALLY
- The Government or local authority will NEVER ask for bank details by text
- Anyone who receives a text message inviting them to apply for the payment SHOULD NOT engage, instead forward it to 7726
Earlier this year, the Government announced that everyone over the State Pension age and with an annual income below £35,000 will receive the Winter Fuel Allowance this winter.
If you qualify for the payment you will receive a letter in October or November stating how much you can expect to receive. The payment will range from £100 to £300 depending upon your circumstances.
Most people who are eligible will receive the payment automatically but anyone who is unsure, or does not receive a payment can check whether they can submit a claim on the gov.uk website.
The deadline for you to make a claim for winter 2025 to 2026 is 31 March, 2026.
Those living in care homes are also eligible for the payment.
I’m a pensioner, what do I need to do next?
No pensioner will need to take any action as they will automatically receive the payment this winter.
For those with incomes above the threshold it will be automatically recovered via HMRC.
What other support could I receive?
Pension Credit gives you extra money to help with living costs if you’re over State Pension age and on a low income. It can also help with housing costs. To see if you are eligible, use the Pension Credit calculator on the Governments website.
The Knowsley Offer brings together the support and information available to residents in a range of areas including money and financial advice.
Visit www.knowsley.gov.uk/knowsley-offer/your-money to find out more.